Teaching special education has always held a special place in my heart, largely because of my personal experiences growing up with my brother, who has GRIN2B, a neurodevelopmental disorder. Witnessing his journey, surrounded by dedicated therapists and teachers who have made a tremendous impact on his progress, inspired me to pursue this path. Seeing how they made individualized plans for his needs and celebrated each of his milestones with genuine joy instilled in me a deep admiration for the special education field. Their work showed me the power of empathy, patience, and tailored education, fueling my desire to make a difference in the lives of other children facing similar challenges. From an early age, I understood the importance of support systems, and how much impact a caring, educated professional can have on someone’s development. My brother has undergone countless therapies which include occupational, physical, and speech, all tailored to his needs. These professionals didn’t just help him meet his developmental milestones, they became a part of our family’s support network. I began to notice how differently he responded to various teaching methods, which made me realize that effective teaching, especially for special education students, is not a one-size-fits-all approach. This realization has inspired me to study and understand the nuances of special education, with the ultimate goal of becoming a teacher who can have the same positive influence on others that my brother's educators had on him. In my pursuit of this career, I have learned that teaching special education students requires an entirely different skill set than general education. There are unique strategies, patience, and creative approaches that must be employed to meet the varied needs of each student. The most important method is individualized instruction. No students learn the same way, and this becomes critical in special education. Personalized teaching plans, focusing on the strengths and needs of the student, can lead to significant progress. Observing how my brother’s teachers created specialized learning plans based on his interests, abilities, and skills has shown me the value of tailoring education to the individual. Another method in teaching special education students is the emphasis on functional skills education. While academic learning is important, many special education students benefit more from learning skills that will aid them in day-to-day living. My brother, for example, has been taught life skills that help him function more confidently and independently, whether it’s through practicing daily routines or learning how to communicate his needs effectively. These skills build a foundation for students to thrive in the world beyond the classroom, and seeing how beneficial this has been for my brother motivates me to adopt this approach in my own teaching. Inclusion is another method that I find crucial in the field of special education. Integrating special education students into mainstream classrooms where appropriate allows them to learn social skills, fosters a sense of belonging, and exposes them to varied peer interactions. My brother has benefited from inclusive activities that allow him to work alongside typically developing peers. These experiences help build his self-esteem, develop his social skills, and show him that he is valued, regardless of his challenges. As a future special education teacher, I want to continue fostering inclusive environments where every child feels valued, supported, and capable of success. Through all these methods, one consistent theme I’ve observed in my brother’s experience is the power of encouragement. The therapists and educators who have worked with him have always celebrated his victories, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement has kept him motivated and happy, despite the challenges he faces. As a special education teacher, I believe that creating a nurturing and supportive environment, where every success is celebrated, is key to fostering a love for learning in children who may struggle to meet conventional milestones. My passion for teaching special education is deeply rooted in the love I have for my brother and the admiration I feel for the professionals who have helped him. Their dedication and care have not only shaped his development but also influenced my desire to be that supportive figure for other children. I am pursuing this career because I believe every child, regardless of their abilities, deserves a champion, someone who will tailor lessons to their needs, encourage their strengths, and help them navigate their challenges. I want to be that champion for my students, just as my brother's teachers have been for him.

From the moment I first watched an airplane soar through the sky, I knew that flying was something I had to pursue. My interest in aviation began at a young age, inspired by the excitement and freedom that comes with it. As I grew older, my passion for aviation only deepened, and I realized that it wasn't just about the thrill of flying, it was about the opportunity to explore, to innovate, and to be part of a community that connects people across the world. My ambition to pursue an aviation degree is fueled by a desire to make a meaningful impact in the aviation industry. I am driven by the goal of becoming a skilled pilot and contributing to the safe and efficient operation of aircraft. I see a future where I am not only flying but also playing a role in advancing aviation technology and safety standards. Through training and education, I aim to develop the technical expertise and leadership skills necessary to excel in this field. One of the most inspiring moments in my journey towards aviation was when I had the chance to meet pilots and hear their stories. Their passion, dedication, and commitment to their aircraft clicked with me, and it made me realize that aviation is more than just a career, it's a way of life. This realization solidified my decision to pursue an aviation degree, as I knew that I wanted to be part of this incredible community of professionals who share a common love for the skies. In addition to my passion for aviation, I have been actively involved in my school’s community by helping organize events for the Future Farmers of America (FFA). Through my work with FFA, I’ve helped plan and manage school-wide activities, bringing together students and promoting leadership, teamwork, and service. Organizing these events has taught me valuable skills in communication, time management, and collaboration, all of which I believe will serve me well in my future aviation career. It has also reinforced my commitment to giving back and helping others reach their full potential, just as I hope to do in the aviation field. In the future, I plan to use my aviation degree to pursue a career as a professional pilot. My ultimate goal is to fly for a major airline, where I can combine my love for travel with my dedication to safety and service. I am also interested in becoming an emergency medical service pilot. I am also interested in exploring opportunities in aviation management and operations, where I can contribute to the strategic growth and development of the industry. No matter where my career takes me, I am determined to make a positive impact and to inspire others to pursue their own dreams in aviation. In conclusion, my ambition, drive, and passion for aviation have shaped my career goals and aspirations. I am excited to pursue an aviation degree and to embark on a journey that will allow me to fulfill my dreams of flying while making a meaningful contribution to the aviation industry. I believe that with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, I can achieve my goals and become a valuable member of the aviation community.